How can we help non-profit making organisations?

Non-profit organizations (NGOs) are like any purpose-driven organization that need to fulfil stakeholder interest and service imperatives. Unique cybersecurity may bring challenges to fundraising activities, social media reputation, program milestones, valuable photographs and annual reporting. 

• Limited Resources: NGOs often operate with tight budgets, which can limit their ability to invest in robust cybersecurity measures and continuous operation. 

• Sensitive Information: NGOs handle sensitive data, including donor information, which makes them attractive targets for cybercriminals. 

• Lack of Expertise: Many NGOs lack dedicated cybersecurity personnel, relying instead on volunteers or third-party vendors who may not have the necessary expertise and adequate focus time. 

• Phishing and Social Engineering: Cybercriminals often target NGOs with phishing attacks and social engineering tactics to gain access to other more lucrative targets or  sensitive information. 

• Remote Working: NGOs staff are from different walks of life who frequently work from home, work from remote sites or from another regions. Their laptops and tablets are not exposed to unfamiliar computer networks putting risk of ransomware attacks or other advance persistent threat (APT). These threats can lock down their systems and disrupt operations. 

• Operational Disruptions: Cyberattacks can lead to significant operational disruptions, affecting the NGO's ability to carry out its mission. 

• Espionage and Disinformation: NGOs involved in sensitive political or humanitarian work may be targeted by nation-states or hacktivists for espionage or disinformation campaigns. 

In summary, these challenges highlight the importance of NGOs adopting comprehensive cybersecurity measures to protect their operations and the sensitive information they handle.